What is Cystic Fibrosis?

Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic disease that causes a ray of lung infections and limits in an individual to breathe consistently over a period of time. CF causes the lungs, pancreas, and other organs to build up a damp amount of mucus. The buildup of mucus blocks airways and traps a bunch of bacteria that can lead to long-term lung damage and even respiratory failure.

There are a variety of symptoms that CF people can acquire including long-term coughing with phlegm, shortness of breath, pneumonia, bronchitis, lack of weight gain, salty skin, and even male infertility.

Who has Cystic Fibrosis?

There are about 30,000 people in the United States that have Cystic Fibrosis. The disease affects 1 in 2,500-3500 white newborns. It is interesting because it is not common in other ethnic groups. 1 in 17,000 African Americans are affected by it and 1 in 100,000 in Asian Americans.

How is one tested?

There are around 1,000 new cases diagnosed in the United States every year. It is mandatory for all doctors to test newborns for CF, this started in 2010. Doctors collect blood samples from a heel pricks and a “sweat test”. A sweat test measures the amount of salt in sweat, if positive this can determine the official diagnosis of Cystic Fibrosis.

How YOU can help:

With GWED being Tiffany and Caleb’s prime, they are also very passionate about community involvement. Can’t attend the GWED? There are other ways to donate as well! Click this link to find out how you can help!